Welcome to the 28th annual Printers Row Lit Fest

We're delighted to welcome everyone to the 28th edition ofthe Chicago Tribune'sPrinters Row Lit Fest, the largest annual gathering of book lovers between the coasts.

Appropriately, the historic Printers Row neighborhood in the South Loop is again the site of this year's festival, June 9 and 10. It promises to be a wonderful weekend.

One highlight will be the presentation of the Tribune's Young Adult Literary Prize to John Green, who has enthralled both avid readers and reluctant teen readers through his novels, such as "Looking for Alaska" and "The Fault in Our Stars."

Chicago's Sara Paretsky, recipient of the Harold Washington Literary Prize, will appear at one of the many programs held at the beautiful public library named for the late mayor. We'll also announce the winner of the Tribune's Nelson Algren Short Story Prize.

Elsewhere at the fair, about 250 authors will appear and talk with readers about their work. Our younger readers can head to Lil' Lit Park, where they can enjoy musical programs and activities. Meanwhile, on the Good Eating Stage, amateur cooks -- and devoted eaters -- can pick up trade secrets from world-renowned chefs.

On the Trib Nation Stage, Tribune personalities will discuss some of the forces shaping the news, so please stop by to meet some of our columnists and critics. Entertainment will stretch into the evening with "Chicago Live!" -- the wonderful variety show featuring our in-house raconteur, Rick Kogan.

Books by all of the authors will be available for those who want a souvenir. You can also stroll the streets and browse the stalls of more than 180 booksellers, who offer everything from vintage maps and postcards to first editions.

We hope that you will remember the festival long after it ends. And to maintain a connection to the festival throughout the year, please consider a subscription to Printers Row, our exciting new membership program that offers Chicago Tribune readers a weekly 24-page section devoted to books and ideas. Each section includes a booklet featuring a significant work of short fiction. And membership includes access to monthly events, including our popular Printers Row Live events with guest authors. For more details, please stop by the Printers Row Member Lounge on-site at Lit Fest, on Dearborn Street between Congress Parkway and Polk Street, or visit chicagotribune.com/printersrow.

Everyone at the Chicago Tribune is proud to host the Printers Row Lit Fest. We're reminded each year of Chicago's distinctive place in the literary pantheon and are steadfast in our determination to celebrate that tradition and champion its future.